Pursuing a Career in Wildland Fire Management Planning with the Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service is currently looking for dedicated professionals to step into a leadership role as a Wildland Firefighter (Fire Management Planning). This position offers a unique opportunity to shape national policies, influence fire readiness, and manage complex fleet operations. If you are an experienced fire professional looking to transition from field operations to national-level strategic planning, this is the perfect career move.
Job Responsibilities
This role is integral to the Fire and Aviation Management (FAM) organization. Key duties include:
- Strategic Leadership: Providing consultation for short and long-term strategic fire management plans.
- Fleet Management: Coordinating national fire equipment and fleet modernization efforts.
- Fiscal Responsibility: Developing annual budgets and overseeing cost recovery processes.
- Operational Guidance: Ensuring field units adhere to safety standards and DOT regulations.
Comparison: Grade Levels
| Feature | GW-12 Level | GW-13 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Technical planning support | National program leadership |
| Responsibility | Unit-level coordination | Strategic direction & budgeting |
| Experience | Equivalent to GW-11 | Equivalent to GW-12 |
Requirements
Applicants must be U.S. citizens aged 18 or older. You will need to demonstrate prior wildland firefighting experience and be willing to undergo drug testing and a rigorous background check. The resume limit of two pages is strictly enforced.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range from $97,564 to $146,671 per year, depending on the duty location and specific grade level assigned.
Benefits
Employees enjoy federal health benefits, retirement options (CSRS/FERS), and potential recruitment incentives. You will also have access to career development plans and possible non-competitive promotion paths.
Application Tips
Start early. Ensure your resume highlights your specialized experience specifically in fire planning and budget management. Double-check your document uploads to ensure they are legible and within the 5MB limit.
Serving as a Fire Management Planner is more than just a job; it is a vital service to the nation. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply and contribute your expertise to the Forest Service mission.
Why This Wildland Firefighter (Fire Management Planning) Job Matters
Shape the future of wildland fire management and lead critical national readiness initiatives with the USDA Forest Service.
Wildland Firefighter (Fire Management Planning) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking an experienced professional for a Wildland Firefighter position focused on Fire Management Planning. This critical role within the National Office Fire and Safety, Fire and Aviation Management (FAM) organization involves developing high-level policies, coordinating national readiness strategies, and managing fire fleet operations. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the nation's fire preparedness efforts are sustainable, modern, and effective.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Fire Management Planning)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in random drug testing.
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test for designated fire positions.
- Must provide proof of prior wildland firefighting experience (required for secondary coverage).
- Must clear a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Resume must not exceed two pages.
- Must serve a one-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Fire Management Planning)
- Specialized experience equivalent to at least the GW-11 level for GW-12 positions.
- Specialized experience equivalent to at least the GW-12 level for GW-13 positions.
- Expertise in long-term strategic fire planning and interagency coordination.
- Technical proficiency in fire management software and risk modeling.
- Proven history of budget management and fleet operations leadership.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement coverage options (CSRS/FERS).
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance programs.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Career development and promotion potential.
- ✓Access to agency daycare facilities where available.
- ✓Opportunities for telework flexibility.
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Fire Management Planning) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Fire Management Planning) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full announcement details and requirements.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Click the 'Apply' button to access the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, ensuring file sizes are under 5MB.
- Submit your complete application packet by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the duties listed in the announcement.
- Check that your document formats are compatible (PDF, Word, or text files preferred).
- Do not exceed the two-page resume limit; extra pages will lead to disqualification.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have successfully transferred to the agency staffing system.
- Contact the help desk well before the deadline if you encounter technical hardships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the specialized experience required?
No, there is no substitution of education allowed for the specialized experience requirements of this position.
Are there specific requirements for the resume?
Yes, your resume must not exceed two pages. It should include contact information, education, and specific work history details including hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
What happens if I need an accommodation for a disability?
The agency provides reasonable accommodations on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the listed Agency Contact as early as possible in the application process.
Is relocation assistance available?
Yes, relocation incentives may be authorized based on the final determination of the hiring official.
Is this a remote position?
No, this role is station-based in either Boise, Idaho or Missoula, Montana.
Job from Forest Service
The Forest Service manages over 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Beyond protecting these lands, the agency conducts world-class research and provides vital support to state and private forestry organizations. Working here means taking on an awesome responsibility with limitless rewards.